Looking for your first home is very exciting – so how do you start your search while being practical? Here are some things to help you focus your search and stay on track.

TOP TIP: Keep an open mind. No matter how clear and defined your list of requirements is, compromising is often required when house hunting. 

The location

Ask yourself a set of important questions to help you clarify your needs. This list isn’t exhaustive, but it will get you started:

• How far are you prepared to travel to work?
• Are there good transport links?
• Should you be looking for an area which is close to good schools, play areas and a safe community?
• Is there enough entertainment nearby, such as a cinema or theatre?
• How far away are the shops? Can you pop out for milk if needed?
• Is there a high level of crime in the area?
• Does it feel like a safe area at night?
• What is the neighbourhood like, is there a strong sense of community?
• Are there lots of rented properties nearby with temporary neighbours or students?
• How annoyed would you be living on a busy road? Could you get used to it over time?
• Are there any plans to develop the area, such as new transport links or big housing developments?

The property

Ask yourself the following questions to determine what you are looking for:

• Do you need a house or could you live in a flat?
• How much storage do you need?
• Do you need two bedrooms, or would just like two bedrooms?
• How important is outside space? Could you maintain a large garden? How much would you use the outdoor space?
• Where will you be able to park your car? Is there a drive or will you be fighting for a space on the road every day? Will you need a permit to park nearby?
• Can you afford the council tax?
• Could you live with the décor for a few months until you can afford to improve it?
• Is the bathroom functional, can you replace it a few months down the line when your funds are replenished?
• Could you knock a wall down to make a bigger space? Could you add an extension to accommodate the living space you need?
• Do you require a home office? Does the property have a suitable space for you?
• Does it have the potential to be the right home, even though it may not be at the moment?